Freedom of Information – to make public bodies more open and accountable by providing the public with a legislated right of access to government records.
Protection of Privacy – to prevent the unauthorized collection, use, or disclosure of personal information by public bodies.
The Town of Peace River supports the principle of transparency and the majority of information held by the Town is available through our website, publications, and meeting agenda packages and reports. Information which is not already available to the public may be available upon verbal request.
Under the FOIP Act, any person has the right to request information that is in the custody and control of the Town, including their personal information. Individuals may also request a correction of their personal information.
If the information you are seeking is not routinely available (e.g. published on our website or in a Council agenda), you may have to submit a formal request for access under the Act.
We encourage you to contact the Town's FOIP Coordinator so that we can help determine whether the record(s) you wish to access are available or if a FOIP request will be required.
All FOIP Requests must be made as follows:
In writing to the Town of Peace River FOIP Coordinator by completing the Access to Information Form and returning it to the Town Office at Box 6600, 9911 100 Street, Peace River, Alberta, T8S 1S4. Submissions by email will also be accepted; however, the application fee (referenced below) will need to be received prior to processing of the request.
Please make your request is as specific as possible so we are able to identify the records you are seeking. Failure to do so may result in your request being delayed.
You must include the required $25 initial application fee. Requests will not be processed until the application fee is received. You may provide this payment by cheque payable to the Town of Peace River, or in person at the Town Office by debit or cash.
Upon receipt of your completed Request to Access Information Form and initial application fee, the FOIP Coordinator will respond to your request within 30 calendar days to inform you whether the information can be released in whole or with redacted portions; cannot be released; or whether an extension is required to process large volumes of records and/or consult with third parties. If it is determined that the information cannot be released, you will be provided with an explanation. You will be contacted with an estimate of costs of producing copies and additional processing costs, if applicable.
If you feel the Town has not responded adequately to your access to information request; or you have concerns with how we have collected, used, or disclosed your personal information, you can file a complaint with the Office of the Information of Privacy Commissioner (OIPC) for Alberta.
The Town will always work with you to try and resolve your concerns; however, if we are unable to come to a resolution or you disagree with the response you receive, you may file a complaint with the OIPC.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the FOIP Coordinator at 780-624-2574.
